Dental services

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Oral Sedation and Sleep Dentistry

Relax and let you anxiety melt away as we take care of the rest.

If you have a fear of the needle or the drill that prevents you from getting proper dental care; there is a solution: it is called Sleep Dentistry.

It really works! You can completely relax through your entire dental appointment. You will have little or no memory of the experience. You will sleep for up to three hours after receiving the sedative. The length of time you are asleep will vary depending on your needed treatment. Complex dental treatment that often requires six to eight appointments can be done in as little as one visit.

Ask us if you think Sleep Dentistry may be for you.

We also use Oral Sedation medication to relieve your stress and minimize any discomfort during a dental treatment. Given orally or by intravenous, the medication lets you enter a state of relaxed sleepiness. You may not fall asleep, but do not care what is happening around you – and you do not remember anything after the procedure is over.

Patients of most ages are possible candidates for Oral Sedation. These options are particularly useful for people with a fear of dental visits, or people with a history of anxiety/panicking, but it's also preferred by people who would simply rather not be "aware" during a procedure.

You won't be able to drive for the remainder of the day following our sleep dentistry or oral sedation techniques, and patients must be accompanied by a responsible adult for 24 hours. The medication wears off very quickly, but could leave you feeling unsteady for the first few hours.

Ask your dentist at Markham Gate Dental Centre for more information on Oral Sedation./p>

FAQs -- Click to reveal the answers to oral sedation questions

Q: What happens during Oral Sedation?

A: To help reduce your level of anxiety and/or discomfort, our helpful staff will first give you an oral sedative before the procedure. Then you'll enter a dreamy, relaxed state, and may or may not fall asleep. Your mouth and jaw muscles will be relaxed while we work on your teeth, and you won't realize what is being done and you won't remember it afterward. You will be monitored to ensure your comfort throughout your treatment.

Q: How do children respond to Oral Sedation?

A: If your child is fearful of the dentist, Oral Sedation is a great solution to reduce anxiety, or for children who simply could not remain still and calm during a procedure. Ask your dentist about the best solution for your child as younger children may receive oral sedation only, or oral sedation with nitrous oxide. After the procedure, children should be closely monitored, because they will feel unsteady and could be at risk for falling and injuring themselves.

Q: What do I need to know before getting Sleep Dentistry?

A: Your dental team will be sure to explain the treatment to you in advance. These instructions include: You are not allowed to eat or drink for 12 hours prior to your treatment. You will need to wear short sleeves, as well as arrange for a drive home from your appointment.

Q: Does my dental insurance cover Oral Sedation or Sleep Dentistry?

A: As with any treatment, it depends on your insurance coverage, but most dental plans cover sedation when administered with oral surgery. Our helpful front desk staff will be happy to help you understand your available coverage, so please ask us at your next appointment.